The community is still reeling months on from a major bushfire crisis which impacted the Mid North Coast.
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However, some residents might not experience traumatic stress until months or even years after it occurs.
That's why Lifeline Mid Coast has developed a program to help communities which have been impacted by recent events.
A number of members from the Lake Cathie community attended the Lifeline Community Leadership program on Wednesday, March 11. Attendees participated in psychological first aid training.
Lifeline Mid Coast spokesperson Lisa Willows said the training equipped attendees with skills to listen to others and educated them on services available to refer people in need.
Kylie Brown said when the bushfire crisis broke out in Lake Cathie, the Lake Cathie Rural Fire Brigade station became a hub where the community could gather for support.
The station was initially a space just to attend for the needs of firefighters, but Kylie said it quickly became a place where everyone could feel welcome.
Firefighters would usually close the station's doors after leaving to attend a fire.
However, members recognised it was important to keep the doors open, as people would attend the station seeking company during the event.
"People felt comfortable to come in, tell us their story and to say thank you," Kylie said.
"We received thousands of gifts and donations for the firefighters. Some kids gave us their pocket money and the most gorgeous drawings."
Kylie said the training would be beneficial to put into action in the event of a future crisis and would be helpful in providing support for people who currently seek it.
A number of community members attended the training on Wednesday, March 11, including people from the Lake Cathie Rural Fire Brigade, Lake Cathie Bonny Hills Real Estate and Saving Lake Cathie.
Lifeline Mid Coast staff will carry out additional training sessions around the Hastings.
For more information about the training, please contact Liz at Lifeline Mid Coast on admin@lifelinemidcoast.org.au or phone 6581 2800.
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